CONTEXT:

• Sustainable development is a global priority, with the UN outlining 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to be achieved by 2030.
• India, as a signatory, is committed to aligning national and state-level development with sustainability principles.
• Urban centres like Bengaluru, facing rapid urbanisation and ecological stress, are key battlegrounds for sustainable progress.

CONCEPT:

• Sustainable Development balances environmental, economic, and social needs without compromising future generations.
• It includes actions like combating climate change, conserving water, reducing pollution, promoting clean energy, and inclusive economic growth.
• SDGs require multi-stakeholder engagement—government, academia, industry, and civil society must collaborate.
• Public awareness and behavioural change are essential for successful implementation.
• Education institutions play a pivotal role in shaping sustainability discourse, innovation, and grassroots action.

CURRENT:

• The Sustainable Development Report (SDR) 2025 was released by O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) at the Bengaluru Sustainability Conclave.
• Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot launched the report, calling it a “laudable step” for climate and environmental action.
• Key highlights:
  • Partnerships between academia, government, and civil society are vital.
  • Bengaluru, despite being a tech hub, faces urban stress—climate change, pollution, and deforestation.
  • Referenced national initiatives like Swachh Bharat and Make in India as supporting pillars of grassroots sustainability.
  • Urged public sensitisation and behavioural shifts in conserving energy, water, and forests.